Question 1

How many elements are on the periodic table?

Accepted Answer

The current periodic table contains 118 confirmed elements, from Hydrogen (1) to Oganesson (118). The most recent additions — Nihonium, Moscovium, Tennessine and Oganesson — were officially named in 2016.

Question 2

What do the colors mean?

Accepted Answer

Colors group elements by category: alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, post-transition metals, metalloids, nonmetals, halogens, noble gases, lanthanides and actinides. The legend below the table explains each color.

Question 3

Can I search for a specific element?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Use the search box to find elements by name (Hydrogen), symbol (H) or atomic number (1). The matching cell is highlighted and its details appear below the table.

Question 4

What is an electron configuration?

Accepted Answer

An electron configuration describes how electrons are distributed among an atom's shells and subshells. For example, Carbon (atomic number 6) has the configuration 1s² 2s² 2p², meaning 2 electrons in the first shell and 4 in the second.